ATK coach Molina nixes talk about his future

Kolkata, Dec 19 (IANS) Without divulging his future, Jose Molina, Indian Super League (ISL) football franchise Atletico de Kolkata’s (ATK) head coach, on Monday dedicated the tournament win to his family.

“Now it’s time to enjoy and celebrate. About the future, we will decide later,” Molina told reporters at a plush city shopping mall here.

“When is the ISL next year? Nobody knows so let’s not think about it now. I will go back home and spend time with my family back in Spain. I enjoyed a lot here and I am blessed to be coach of ATK,” the Spaniard said.

Asked whom he dedicates the ISL triumph to, Molina said, “I dedicate it to my family. They were in Spain without me for so long. I a happy they could enjoy the final with me in Kerala (yesterday).”

Molina said he told the players after extra time that he believes his wards can win. ATK won 4-3 on penalties against Kerala Blasters in Kochi on Sunday after the match was tied 1-1 at normal time and extra time.

“When extra time finished, we came together and talked for a while. I told the players to keep calm and remember we have confidence and will win. They volunteered to take penalties themselves,” the Spaniard revealed.

Asked whether it was his decision to let Jewel Raja take one of the five spot kicks, Molina said it was the the player’s decision.

“He (Jewel) came up to me and said ‘I want to take the fifth penalty’ and I said ok go ahead,” Molina said.